ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Army Chief, General Syed Asim Munir, visited Peshawar where he engaged in extensive discussions with tribal elders and received briefings on regional security and operational readiness, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) announced on Thursday.
During his visit, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) participated in an interactive session with a jirga of tribal leaders in Peshawar. Subsequently, he was briefed at Headquarters 11 Corps on the current security situation, ongoing counter-terrorism operations, and efforts to uphold peace and stability along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border.
In his address to the jirga, General Munir acknowledged the unwavering support of the tribal communities to the security forces amid the recent tensions with the Afghan Taliban. He paid tribute to the resilience and sacrifices of the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in the fight against terrorism. The elders reaffirmed their full backing for the armed forces in combating terrorism and also expressed concerns regarding the Afghan Taliban’s stance.
The Army Chief emphasized Pakistan’s desire for peaceful relations with all neighboring countries, including Afghanistan, but underscored that cross-border terrorism would not be tolerated. He pointed out that despite persistent provocations from across the border, Pakistan has shown patience and extended diplomatic and economic overtures aimed at fostering better relations with Afghanistan.
However, he criticized the Afghan Taliban regime for allegedly supporting terrorist proxies like Fitna Al Khwarij and Fitna Al Hindustan, instead of taking decisive action against them. Assuring the tribal elders of Pakistan’s resolve, the COAS vowed that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa would be cleared of terrorists and their supporters.
The elders expressed appreciation for the frank and open dialogue with General Munir, reaffirming their commitment to peace in Pakistan and condemning the extremist ideology propagated by FAK, which they said has no acceptance among the tribes of KPK.Upon arrival, the COAS was welcomed by Commander Peshawar Corps.
